“Sea Slave” is a poised poem on both literal and sonic levels. The three-verse song stretches its arm with storytelling, weaving powerful visuals and thoughtful introspection into their minimalistic wording while the sonics span between organic, atmospheric synth-pop soundscapes and captivity.

Located in Brussels, Belgium, Corto Colonel is a dreamer, an adventurer, a poet, a freedom seeker, as well as a synth-pop duo. They travel between the past, the present, and future, expanding their creative horizon with stimulated multi-media projects that dive into history, social issues, art, music, and written words.

Released on the International Day for the abolition of slavery, “Sea Slave” revolves around the story of a man fighting to recover his freedom. Corto Colonel opens the song with four lines that set the mood and paint the surroundings:

“Man was having dreams; on a far away land; standing tall; between palm trees and the seas; time was flying by; like a cuddle on the cheek.”

As the storyline thickens, they reflect on Man’s fighting spirit that lived on despite physical enslavement, the inevitable revolution in which “hangman will be hanged” and eventually, returning to “fatherland,” while the haunting, unresolved line echoes throughout the song: “Sea Slave sailing away.”

“Sea Slave sailing away.” This simple but powerful line consists layers of interpretations that evoke reflection on the subject of enslavement with a poised imagery that symbolizes the seeking and hope for freedom.

The track features guest vocalist, Eric Nahimana, who contributes to the haunting factor of the song with his authentic yet touching performance that reminds you of the early blues.

Written by Katrina Yang

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